Disabilities
Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church

“Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church,” Disability Services: Parents and Caregivers (2020)

“Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church,” Disability Services: Parents and Caregivers

Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church

Boy in wheelchair with others at the temple

  • Can my child or an individual I’m caring for be baptized? If an individual has a desire to be baptized, communicate your child’s wishes with your bishop or branch president. In general, ordinances are not withheld if individuals are worthy, have a desire to receive them, and can demonstrate an appropriate degree of responsibility and accountability (see General Handbook: Serving in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 38.2.1.8; Katie E. Steed, “Is My Child With a Disability Ready to Be Baptized?” Ensign, June 2020, 50–53).

  • Can my child or an individual I’m caring for participate in temple ordinances? Individuals that have a desire to go to the temple should communicate that desire with their bishop or branch president. He will be able to help them make the best decision about receiving temple ordinances and help them prepare to receive these ordinances at the appropriate time. In general, ordinances are not withheld if a person is worthy, has a desire to receive them, and can demonstrate an appropriate degree of responsibility and accountability. They should also be able to understand the purposes and eternal significance of temples.

  • Can my child or an individual I’m caring for receive the priesthood? All worthy priesthood-age males are encouraged to receive the priesthood. If the person has a desire to receive the priesthood, they should discuss their desires with their bishop or branch president. In general, the priesthood is not withheld if they are worthy, have a desire to receive it, and demonstrate an appropriate degree of responsibility and accountability (see General Handbook, 38.2.5.4).

  • Can my child or an individual I’m caring for serve a mission? Many mission opportunities are available for members with disabilities who have a desire to serve a mission. To learn about missionary opportunities for members with disabilities, see ChurchofJesusChrist.org/service-missionary or seniormissionary.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.